Gold Cirrus: A Rare British Marvel in Automotive History

Forgotten ONES - In the hidden corners of England, a treasure trove of rare automotive gems awaits, unbeknownst to many enthusiasts worldwide. Among these hidden jewels is the Gold Cirrus, an extraordinary lightweight sports car that emerged briefly on the scene as a distinctive all-British alternative to renowned European sports car marques like Porsche and Ferrari.

The Gold Cirrus was an extraordinary lightweight sports car that emerged briefly on the scene as a distinctive all-British alternative to renowned European sports car marques like Porsche and Ferrari. (Picture from: Nick-Butler)

Crafted by the short-lived Gold Motor Company, the Gold Cirrus boasted innovation and style. The brain behind this unique creation was Nick Butler, the founder of the company (perhaps you still recall one of his creations, the Wolfrace Sonic).

The Gold Cirrus's interior adorned with Connolly Leather covering all the cabin components, coupled with Recaro seats providing comfort. (Picture from: Wiki-Gearknob)

With a track record of building show-winning hot rods and custom cars, Butler established his company in 1984 and set out to design the exceptional Cirrus. The initial Gold prototype, a dazzling marvel earning the spotlight on the cover of the August 1991 issue of Performance Car and later featuring on Top Gear the same year.

The Gold Cirrus (in pictured is the 2nd unit) showcased a composite bodyshell mounted on a steel frame chassis, housing a mid-mounted 3.9 Rover V8 engine that delivered power to all four wheels through a custom transaxle. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)

The Gold Cirrus showcased a composite bodyshell mounted on a steel frame chassis, housing a mid-mounted 3.9 Rover V8 engine that delivered power to all four wheels through a custom transaxle. Noteworthy aerodynamic features included a rear-mounted radiator and strategically designed rear pillars that directed air onto the louvres in the engine cover.

The Gold Cirrus (in pictured is the 2nd unit) aerodynamic features included a rear-mounted radiator and strategically designed rear pillars that directed air onto the louvres in the engine cover. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)

Upon its launch, the Gold Cirrus garnered attention for its ingenuity, the ability to transform between coupé and cabriolet designs, and its impressive handling. Despite the acclaim, the sports car faced critiques for its perceived lack of power and a price tag of £45,000 (at the time), proving that perfection is elusive in the automotive realm.

Upon its launch, the Gold Cirrus (in pictured is the 2nd unit) garnered attention for its ingenuity, the ability to transform between coupé and cabriolet designs, and its impressive handling. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)

Inside the Cirrus, luxury abounded, with Connolly Leather covering all the cabin components, coupled with Recaro seats providing comfort. The unique feature of the cockpit adjusting with the movement of the steering rack, not just the steering wheel, added to the car's allure.

However, some drawbacks, such as the perceived closeness of the pedal position and the need for a brake servo for more accurate application, were noted. Mechanically, the Cirrus experienced rough gear changes, leading automotive observers like Tiff Needell to dub the concept as a bit "indulgent" but commendable.

Regrettably, the Gold Cirrus never saw widespread production, and the Gold Motor Company faced challenges in manufacturing and selling recreational vehicles. Despite earnest efforts, a second attempt through Scornhill Motors in 1996 yielded only two completed units, marking the end of the road for this intriguing piece of automotive history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | NICK-BUTLER | WIKI-GEARKNOB | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS | RETRO-RIDES | MOLE-VALLEY ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.